Warrior Ancient and Medieval Rules

Hugh Eton writes this based on his research:

"Artilley was of limited use in field battles because of its relative
immobility and low rate of fire. However, it could be used if sited to fire
over friendly troops, for example from a fort or city wall or high hill, but
such positions were rare. It could also be used to cover river crossings. But
as far as is known, artillery was not used in a field battle in this period
and was confined to static positions. Two theoretical writers suggested
mounting ballistae on wagons, a practice which occurred in the early Empire
and which may have survived. This would give the ballistae greater mobility."

Eton, Hugh. Warefare in Roman Europe AD 350-425. (Oxford, 1996) p. 252

I know this isn't the last word, but skimming through the bibliography, Eton
seems fairly conversant with the literature on the period. Having said that,
I remember him being criticized on this list over some other conclusion he
drew.

John Meunier


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]